By Victoria Hamilton 
As preparations ramp up for a busy international calendar, the Proteas Women are set to begin their three-match T20 International series against West Indies Women this Friday, 20 June, at the iconic Three Ws Oval in Barbados. The opening clash of the series kicks off at 14:00 local time (20:00 SAST) and will be broadcast live on SuperSport Cricket (Channel 212).
This series marks a critical format transition for South Africa following a successful 2-1 ODI series win over the same opponents. Despite 2025 being a 50-over World Cup year, the Proteas are equally focused on sharpening their T20 credentials ahead of the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup next June.
All-rounder Annerie Dercksen, speaking ahead of the series opener, emphasized the team’s dual-format priorities. “Winning is always our goal, whether it’s T20 or ODI cricket,” she stated. “While the upcoming ODI World Cup is huge, we’re also conscious of using this T20 series to explore combinations for next year’s T20 World Cup.”
Dercksen, who notched her maiden ODI century earlier this year, admitted the Caribbean conditions have been a contrast to subcontinental pitches. “Sri Lanka offered low-scoring, spin-friendly wickets. Here, there’s more bounce, but it’s still tough for batters coming in during the latter stages. I’m staying positive — cricket’s a momentum game.”
With Laura Wolvaardt leading the side, the Proteas will rely on experienced names like Marizanne Kapp, Chloé Tryon, and Ayabonga Khaka to guide a squad that includes promising uncapped talent like Miané Smit. The team’s depth in all departments could be vital in testing combinations under pressure.
The West Indies series not only serves as a form check but also as a strategic opportunity for coach Mandla Mashimbyi to trial tactical setups and player roles ahead of next year’s global events.
Proteas Women’s Fixtures – West Indies Tour:
- 1st T20I – Friday, 20 June @ 20:00 SAST
- 2nd T20I – Sunday, 22 June @ 16:00 SAST
- 3rd T20I – Monday, 23 June @ 20:00 SAST
All matches at Three Ws Oval, Barbados
As the team continues to evolve across formats, their tour of the Caribbean represents more than just results — it’s a stepping stone toward building a well-balanced unit ready for two World Cups in two years.